Kendrick Continues to Make His Case

Kyle Kendrick is on a mission. He’s been picking Roy Halladay’s brain. Some days, he beats Halladay to the ballpark — which is usually as early as 5:00 a.m! By his current work ethic, it’s easy to tell that Kendrick wants to be the Phillies’ fifth starter.

The New York Yankees defeated the Phillies 7-5 on Monday, but the Phillies received an impressive outing from Kendrick, who continues to make his case for the final spot in the rotation. Kendrick tossed three scoreless innings. In the process, he struck out one, allowed just one hit and did not walk a batter.

On the other hand, Jose Contreras pitched terribly. In 1.2 innings, he surrendered six runs on six hits and three walks. There was a very slight chance that Contreras would be the fifth starter, but it’s more realistic for him to fill Chan Ho Park’s spot in the bullpen, with Kendrick and Jamie Moyer dishing it out for the fifth slot.

Also in the game, Jimmy Rollins (2-for-4) smashed his second home run of the spring. For the first time this spring, Domonic Brown did not get a hit (0-for-2).

Halladay will start tomorrow against the Braves. Andrew Carpenter, Danys Baez, and Ryan Madson are slated to pitch. Billy Wagner is scheduled to pitch for the Braves.